Therapists for college students near UCLA

Hi, I'm Jessica Taylor Vara, LMFT, a Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA Approved Consultant. On paper, your life might look pretty good. You're responsible. Capable. The person everyone turns to when they need help. But underneath it all, you're exhausted. Maybe you're constantly overthinking, struggling with anxiety, second-guessing yourself, or feeling like you're never quite enough no matter how hard you try. Maybe you're stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns, carrying the weight of childhood experiences you thought you should be over by now, or finding yourself overwhelmed by stress, perfectionism, and self-doubt. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. I help college students, graduate students, young professionals, and adults heal from anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, people-pleasing, relationship difficulties, and the lasting impact of difficult life experiences. Many of my clients are thoughtful, high-achieving people who have spent years trying to understand themselves but still feel stuck repeating the same emotional patterns. My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply compassionate. I integrate EMDR therapy and traditional talk therapy to help clients move beyond insight and create real, lasting change. Together, we'll work to heal the root causes of your struggles, build healthier relationships, strengthen your confidence, and help you feel more grounded, resilient, and connected to yourself. You don't have to keep carrying everything on your own. I provide online therapy for residents of California and Florida.

Heather Ward, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, is a licensed therapist with deep roots in college campus mental health, having provided counseling and wellness support across multiple higher education settings in the Los Angeles area. Trained at the University of Southern California's Rossier School of Education, Heather has worked at Pierce College, West LA College, and California State University, Northridge, where she managed large student caseloads, coordinated care with multidisciplinary campus teams, and developed workshops focused on building healthy relationships and emotional resilience. Heather brings a warm, collaborative style and a nonjudgmental presence to her work with students navigating depression, anxiety, identity shifts, and the pressures of academic life. She draws from attachment-based, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-oriented approaches to help clients build emotional regulation skills and strengthen their sense of self during pivotal life transitions. Earlier in her career, Heather also contributed to campus mental health from an administrative lens, developing and implementing strategic mental health and counseling initiatives at UCLA Extension — giving her a uniquely well-rounded perspective on how students are supported at an institutional level. Heather is committed to culturally sensitive, inclusive care and has experience supporting diverse student populations across community college and university settings.

Hello, I specialize in supporting high achievers in academia, sport, and medicine. As a bi-cultural neuropsychologist, I can help navigating questions of identity / cultural adjustment for international and multicultural clients. I see clients in most States: CA, IA, MA, NH & all PsyPact States (see list here: https://psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap). Do you struggle with perfectionism? Are you at a transition point in your career and in search of guidance for your next steps? Despite your achievements, you can never fully relax and you feel like you just have to keep going? We will work together to help you find a sense of direction, so you can appreciate what you have accomplished, and enjoy building the life you truly want! For more information, I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation at 603-585-5047. -- Ph.D. #1 from the Sorbonne University, Paris, France Ph.D. #2 from Harvard University UCLA Clinical Faculty & Dartmouth Researcher All services provided in English & in French

I’m really passionate about mental health and I genuinely enjoy helping people work through their challenges and find ways to improve their lives. I work to make a real difference by being someone who listens and supports clients in a way that helps them feel understood and empowered. I want to help them build the tools and confidence they need to handle whatever comes their way. My goal is to create a space where they feel comfortable exploring their feelings and making positive changes in their lives. I often use CBT which is highly effective in helping clients identify and alter dysfunctional thought patterns and behaviors. This approach is beneficial for addressing anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders. I also incorporate aspects of DBT, especially the mindfulness and emotion regulation parts. These techniques provides clients with practical skills to manage their emotions and relationships more effectively. PCT and ACT are also central to my practice. t’s important to me that clients feel heard and valued in our sessions and help clients stay present and committed to making positive changes, even when things get tough. I enjoy working with diverse communities such as minority and marginalized communities, refugees and immigrants, individuals experiencing homelessness, people with substance use disorders, caregivers, incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, veterans, survivors of trauma and domestic violence, elderly populations, individuals with chronic illnesses, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. My aim is always to provide tailored, empathetic support that meets the specific needs of each client. Throughout my career, I’ve had the chance to work with all sorts of people, from children in kindergarten, teens, adults and trauma survivors. These experiences have really shown me how strong and resilient people can be. Personally, dealing with my own challenges has taught me the power of empathy and creating a safe space for clients. I always aim to stay updated with the latest therapy techniques to give my clients the best support possible on their healing journeys.

I was inspired to become a therapist because I’ve always believed in using your voice to strengthen what has been there underneath and to overcome challenges. Life can be very challenging and difficult to navigate, and you do not have to go through it alone-I am here for you. I entered this field because I am a true believer in being able to hold a safe space to talk about the difficulties that springs up in life. I always believed in being able to hear others, educate, and encourage resilience and being a therapist was a perfect way to offer these strengths. I enter each session with care, compassion and knowing that it can be very difficult to open up to another person and to be vulnerable. I want to reassure you that I am with you from the start to the end in our sessions and throughout this journey. I will actively listen, support, provide a non judgmental space and encourage advocacy and healing. I pay close attention to what is being shared, I will ask questions, clarify, and point out things “in the now” as they are happening, tuning in with your verbal and non verbal communication. I will meet you where you are with respect, attentiveness, being present and engaged. Together, we’ll create a space where your voice matters, your experiences are validated, and you can feel supported as you explore, heal, and grow. In our sessions you can trust I am fully present and no problem is too big to be talked about. I invite honest conversations knowing you are in a safe space that respects confidentiality at all times. Every journey is unique and it requires a unique approach and I am committed to using different evidence based treatment tailored to your needs. I take a holistic approach keeping in mind your culture, values, and life experiences. Our therapeutic alliance is important so I frequently check-in and encourage you to apply the skills learned to help you grow. I have seen through out my 11 years in the mental heath field the growth and healing that can come when someone is ready to take on this journey.

Are you ready to make a change in your life? Is there a pattern you keep repeating in relationships that you want to let go of? Do you want to feel comfortable and happy in your own skin? Is your past affecting your present in debilitating ways you want to change? Your brain is naturally wired for change, the neuroplasticity in your brain allows you to form new neural connections breaking free of limiting beliefs. Therapy taps into this ability, and provides tangible skills for you to learn and connect to your own healing power. An experienced hand makes all the difference in healing and awakening to your best self. Specializing in trauma I’m holistic in my approach looking at the flow of energy in you as a whole being: Spirit, Mind, and Body. I interweave Mindfulness, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Attachment Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (AF-EMDR) to fit your unique needs and together we take a journey to the possible.

Hello, My name is Lisa Chester-Schyman and I'm an LMFT practicing in Los Angeles, California. I provide a safe and compassionate environment to support you in your life journey and its many challenges. Through our work together you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, which will allow you to navigate your life with more ease, manage stress, change and transitions, and live a life filled with meaning. Together we will explore your true nature and I will support you to find more comfort in your life by teaching you tools to overcome obstacles to your emotional well-being. Our collaboration will allow you to move through the more challenging times in your life with a greater sense of ease. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents. I specialize in grief and loss, relational issues, transition and trauma. I believe the relationship between a client and therapist is essential in creating personal healing. I nurture a trusting relationship where you will feel safe to explore your thoughts and feelings without any judgment. From this safe place we will explore what coping mechanisms will best help you and I will help guide you through. I would love to help you on your journey especially during this very difficult time in life and the world. Looking forward to working with you.

Navigating the challenges of college and young adulthood can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I specialize in supporting college students, young adults, and children as they work through anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem struggles, and relational challenges. My goal is to create a warm, safe, and judgment-free space where you can explore your emotions, gain clarity, and build the tools you need to thrive. Together, we’ll work at a pace that feels comfortable to you, helping you move toward greater confidence and well-being.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over 9 years of experience in the field of mental health, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, stress management, and ADHD. I am inspired to work in mental health by helping others, seeing close friends struggle with their mental health silently, and the scientific aspects of psychiatry – combination of neuroscience, psychology, and pharmacology offers unique and intellectually stimulating challenges. Ultimately, it’s about making a meaningful impact on people’s lives and contributing to their recovery and well-being. My approach is centered on understanding you as a whole person. I believe that effective mental health care goes beyond symptoms and diagnoses. By listening to your unique story, exploring your individual strengths, and collaborating on personalized treatment plans, we can take steps toward a brighter, more balanced future. All psychiatry providers at Foresight have specialized experience in treating a wide range of common mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, and PTSD. In addition, I specialize in the following areas: grief, men’s issues, racial identity, deprescribing

Comprehensive Psychiatric Services (CPS) is an established behavioral health medical group that has been in existence since 1979. CPS has 40+ MD and DO level psychiatrists that treat children adolescents and adults. The majority of our doctors are board certified or board eligible. With this array of providers, we are averaging 2 weeks or less for a new patient appointment. Our psychiatrists see members with varying diagnosis, ages and other differentiating factors. Besides treating patients that speak English only, we have doctors that are fluent in other languages like Spanish, French, Hindi, and Farsi. CPS also provides video sessions through HIPAA compliant video communication services. These remote services make behavioral health services more convenient; giving patients more access to treatment. What makes our medical group stand out from the rest? Well, it is our availability, and ability to integrate both psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic paradigms. Furthermore, our mental health professionals think holistically, and consistently consult with primary care physicians to ensure excellent patient care. We would like to bring our talents and specialized care to all colleges and universities.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Registered Dance/Movement Therapist. I am interested in supporting you through your college journey. I am focused on helping you manage the stresses of school, family, and your social life. I am here to help you learn how to manage your anxiety and find ways to help you to best take care of yourself. I can help guide you to connect to your mental, physical, and spiritual parts of yourself to help you develop into the best you!

Hi, I’m Stacy, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with neurodivergent adults, especially those with ADHD. I help clients learn how to manage executive functioning challenges, emotional regulation, and relationship struggles with more confidence and self-compassion. As a late-diagnosed neurodivergent adult, I bring both professional and lived experience to my work with clients. Together, we’ll explore how your past experiences and environments have shaped the way you see yourself and the world. Then we'll create a plan that works with your brain and utilizes your strengths. My style is warm and conversational. My approach integrates Adlerian priniciples and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Adlerian therapy helps individuals understand how early experiences shape beliefs like shame or "being lazy." ACT adds tools to manage overwhelm, relate differently to difficult thoughts, and take values-based action. Finding the right therapist is important. If you think I may be a good fit, please feel free to reach out.

Between the 2:00 AM study sessions, the constant pressure to have your life figured out, and the exhaustion of keeping up a 'perfect' digital presence, it’s a lot. If you’re feeling like you’re just vibrating with anxiety or running on manual mode, I see you. I’m Dr. Tinai James, and I help students navigate the messy, non-linear transition of college. My office (and my screen) is a zero-judgment zone where we ditch the clinical "therapist-speak." Whether you're dealing with burnout, relationship drama, or just trying to figure out who you actually are outside of your GPA, let's figure it out together. No couch required—just real talk and actual tools.

I work best with those who are committed to their healing and wellbeing journey. My practice is holistic focused with a body-mind-spirit connection. I work from an Energy Psychology framework and include Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT/Tapping) to support healing in the energy body system. I have a passion for the integration of indigenous practices into modern psychology. I offer a free 20 min phone initial consultation. Please refer to my website for more information.

I specialize in working with College students who are struggling with anxiety, depression, identity, relationships, and the meaning of it all. I spent 13 years working in Student Affairs and understand the pressures of campus life. My clients appreciate the safe and comfortable atmosphere where they can heal from childhood trauma, gain a new perspective, feel connected, build confidence, learn practical skills, and change unhealthy patterns. I am LGBTQ+ affirming.

My clients are vibrant, interesting, intelligent, and high-functioning people who sometimes face challenges with overthinking, self-esteem, emotional regulation, maintaining relationships, and self-compassion. People often reach out to me when they’re struggling to navigate a life transition, work or school-related stress, establishing boundaries and/or balance, or are seeking support in shifting patterns that are no longer serving them. I have worked with young adults, millennials, elders, tech professionals, non-profit professionals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as caregivers and people living with chronic pain. My approach draws from various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness. This allows me to tailor our sessions to your unique needs and preferences. My goal is to create a secure therapeutic relationship where you can freely explore all parts of yourself. In recognition of the importance of accessibility, I offer tele-health therapy sessions. This means you can receive support from the comfort of your own space, making mental health care more accessible and convenient for you. I understand that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I value the time and energy that you are putting into seeking the best support for you and would welcome an opportunity to speak in an initial free 15-minute consultation to see if we’re a fit for working together.

I have had the honor of working as a therapist for 30 years in various settings such as a battered women’s shelter, Child Abuse Reunification programs and the Private Sector. My style as a therapist is calm, empathic and compassionate while using my training, experience and humor to assist my clients on their journey of growth and healing. My practice is focused on helping individuals and couples live a more connected and authentic life, overcoming trauma, managing anxiety and depression, and creating a life that they have always dreamed of. I specialize in working with women and young adults who are moving away from a negative relationship or who are in transitional stages of their lives. I work collaboratively with the client to explore the patterns in their life that are inhibiting them from living the life they desire. I focus on the whole person, mind body and soul to heal the pain from the past and create new and more effective means of communicating with others and in the world in which they live. In my practice I utilize Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Cognitive Therapy and Visualization to provide the most effective ways to regain balance and mental health.

Hello and Welcome! Are you a couple needing to strengthen communication, navigate conflict effectively, and break free from long‑standing gridlock? I’m Rocio Vaca, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 17 years of experience, and I help you deepen friendship, build emotional intimacy, and create shared meaning. Are you exploring your identity, preparing to come out, struggling with self‑acceptance, or navigating gender‑affirming care? Together, we can build healthy coping strategies, strengthen resilience, and address symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress while supporting a stronger sense of self. I help clients find relief from overwhelming thoughts, emotional exhaustion, & daily stress by identifying triggers, emotional regulation, & building coping skills. I also support children/ teens with OCD, trauma, low self‑esteem, & assertiveness challenges often from being bullied, helping them understand emotions/cognitions, build confidence & boundaries. I view therapy as a collaborative and individualized process—one that builds practical skills while fostering insight, emotional healing, and growth. Clients often describe my style as warm, grounded, and down‑to‑earth, creating a space where they feel supported, understood, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey.